Clockwise from top right: Chuck with his three kids (Jim, Pam, Jodie). Chuck with Pam and Jodie. Chuck and his siblings (all of whom are still living). Me and Chuck figuring out a Christmas toy. Chuck at our wedding in 1989. Pam and Chuck. (Click photo to enlarge)

A year ago my father-in-law, Chuck Wilkin, was still asleep, and he shouldn't have been. He had undergone emergency surgery three days before, on December 7, a Friday. On Monday, the 10th, he hadn't yet awakened, and the first bit of concern was arising. But we all figured he would awaken soon. There was hope, and hope continued for several more days.

Pam and I, along with Chuck's brothers and sisters, kids, and grandkids, spent countless hours together at Lutheran Hospital during that week. We all made periodic treks to his bedside, and then returned to the waiting room, which our group pretty much commandeered.

In that waiting room, we had a great time, all things considered. Everyone in the Wilkin klan gets along well. They're a lot of fun, and one of the many benefits of being married to Pam is that I get to be part of that family. I certainly got to know them much better during that long week.

Chuck never woke up. On Friday, December 14, life support was removed. Chuck was then officially gone, though tests showed that brain function had ceased well before that.

December 14 will be Sunday. The worship team is coming to our house for a Christmas get-together.

I know this is a difficult week for Pam, and for her sister, Jodie. Pam doesn't show it, but I'm sure the events of that week one year ago are fresh in her memory. Chuck went unexpectedly, too young.

Chuck was a great guy. He'd do anything for anybody. He was smart, well-read, a successful businessman during his career with Navistar. An Army vet. He was a wonderful brother, a beloved grandpa, a loving father. We all miss him.